NOLA IN NEWS FOR SHOOTINGS, AGAIN

 

Once again, New Orleans made the news on Mother’s Day with a shooting that left 19 people with gunshot wounds; three were critically injured.  For 17 years, this “Second Line” parade has been held in that area without incident.  Once again, neighbors and bystanders saw nothing, but said it was probable revenge; those wounded were unfortunate as to time and place.  What is so sad is that this is, it seems, always the same story.  Shootings happen, no one sees anything, the motive is named revenge, and the same section of the community suffers. 

Last week saw heavy rains, and unseasonably cool weather at the start and then some warm sunny days; Travis was up on a roof and has the tan to prove it.   John Petrullo flew home Thursday for Mother’s Day; Matt Beben met his parents and sister for Mother's Day in Washington, DC leaving here Friday evening despite more rain.  Saturday was cool in New Orleans, with occasional drizzle; Br. John and Travis loaded up on cypress mulch for the garden and moved some plants—actually Travis dug and tugged while John pointed and lent encouragement.  Bob is redoing the railings on a side porch. 

John and Matt returned Sunday evening.  We are now getting ready for Charles’ Platinum Jubilee reception on the afternoon of Saturday, May 18^th.  Matt Beben’s dad, Greg, and sister, Maria, join us for a week or so on Wednesday, May 15^th.  I wonder if they know how to mix a Bellini?

A Reflection:  Each morning, as we finish up our fast-paced, crowded breakfast, Br. Charles always wishes us a good day—and adds an upbeat note about the day ahead, or a caution to use sun block, keep dry or cool or whatever.  It seems we are to look forward to the unfolding of our day with some element of anticipation.  So these words by the Irish poet, John O’Donohue seem appropriate as we anticipate his 70^th Jubilee.

Fluent

I would love to live

Like a river flows,

Carried by the surprise

Of its own unfolding.

~ John O'Donohue~

(Conamara Blues)